Bismuthite, also known as bismuth sulfide, is a mineral that is commonly found in hydrothermal veins and in association with other minerals such as quartz, pyrite, and sphalerite. It is a relatively rare mineral that has a distinct metallic luster and is often used in the production of bismuth metal.
Definitions
Bismuthite is a mineral that is composed of bismuth and sulfur. It is a member of the sulfide mineral group and has the chemical formula Bi2S3. Bismuthite is a soft mineral that has a Mohs hardness of 2.5 to 3. It is also known as bismuth sulfide and bismuth glance.
Origin
Bismuthite is formed in hydrothermal veins that are associated with other minerals such as quartz, pyrite, and sphalerite. It is also formed in the oxidation zone of bismuth deposits. Bismuthite is found in various locations around the world, including Bolivia, China, Germany, and the United States.
Meaning in different dictionaries
According to the Merriam-Webster dictionary, bismuthite is defined as “a mineral consisting of bismuth sulfide that is a source of bismuth.” The Oxford English Dictionary defines bismuthite as “a mineral consisting of bismuth and sulfur, used as a source of bismuth.”
Associations
Bismuthite is often associated with other minerals such as quartz, pyrite, and sphalerite. It is also found in association with other bismuth minerals such as bismite, bismuthinite, and native bismuth.
Synonyms
Bismuth sulfide, bismuth glance, and bismuthinite are all synonyms of bismuthite.
Antonyms
There are no known antonyms of bismuthite.
The same root words
The root word of bismuthite is bismuth, which is a chemical element with the symbol Bi and atomic number 83.
Example Sentences
- The bismuthite deposits in Bolivia are some of the largest in the world.
- Bismuthite is often used as a source of bismuth for the production of alloys and cosmetics.
- The metallic luster of bismuthite makes it a popular mineral for collectors.
- Bismuthite is often found in hydrothermal veins that are associated with other minerals such as pyrite and sphalerite.